China's leadership warns of unprecedented national security risks

BEIJING, Jan. 23 -- The Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee warned China is facing unprecedented security risks and should remain alert.

Some of the security challenges and risks are unpredictable so the country must always be mindful of potential dangers, said a statement issued after a meeting, presided over by President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the CPC Central Committee, on Friday.

A guideline on China's national security strategy was adopted at the meeting.

When explaining the strategy, the statement said China will protect its security in "a pattern with Chinese characteristics".

The country will firmly protect its core and important interests, with people's safety as the main mission, and safeguard national security through reform and economic development, it said.

Also, China will contribute to the global prosperity while actively safeguarding its interests, the statement said.

The country will maintain favorable relations with other major countries, work for a safe neighborhood and step up cooperation with developing countries, it said.

It will take an active part in global and regional governance and contribute to the world's peace and development, it added.